BUILDING FROM THE EARTH

In a bold break from Rajasthan's conventional luxury, Ahmedabad-based Scarlett Designs, helmed by architect Kush Shah, is revolutionising architectural norms—blending modern design with nature to deliver the refreshingly contemporary Ananta Spa & Resort, Ajabgarh

- ANKITA RATHOD

With more than three decades of experience, Kush Shah, founder of Scarlett Designs, has become a pioneering force in architecture. As our Teams call connects, I can't help but notice the backdrop of Kush’s office—a raw, exposed brick wall that instantly evokes the timeless simplicity of Louis Kahn’s work, one of Kush’s greatest influences. It’s a fitting scene, reflecting his design philosophy, where raw materials and authenticity reign supreme. A proud CEPT graduate, Kush’s approach has been shaped by the legacies of Kahn, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Le Corbusier, merging tradition with modernity in a way few can replicate. His latest project, Ananta Resort in Ajabgarh, is a stunning example of nature-inspired luxury that breaks free from convention. As we dive into our conversation, Kush opens up about his design journey, the challenges faced in creating Ananta Spa & Resort in Ajabgarh, and how his deep connection to the land continues to shape his visionary approach to architecture.

Excerpts from the interview...

Ankita Rathod (AR): Kush, Ananta in Ajabgarh is a departure from typical Rajasthan luxury. What was the brief from the Ananta Group, and how did you execute it?

Kush Shah (KS): “Exactly! The brief was clear—Sanjay (Goyal), the client, didn’t want us to replicate the typical palatial designs you often find in Rajasthan. You know, where they take a mountaintop and create a fort-like structure with Indo-Saracenic elements. We wanted something different—something that was deeply rooted in heritage but not confined by it. We drew from the broader Indian history, not just Rajasthan. You’ll see courtyards, colonnades, and double-height spaces, but these elements have been reinterpreted to feel modern, while still staying true to the essence of Indian architecture.”